Out(Skirts)

Over the years, men have developed a greater consciousness when it comes to how they are clad. We have seen many menswear trends boom, particularly trends that deviate from the universal notion of masculinity and all that it stands for. These trends include anything from variations of the satchel and the duffel bag to embellished pieces as well as bulky jewellery.

Burberry | F/W 2011
Photo Credit: http://nazmiyalantiquerugs.com/blog/2011/10/mens-fall-fashion-trends-man-bags/

Gucci | F/W 2011
Photo Credit: http://nazmiyalantiquerugs.com/blog/2011/10/mens-fall-fashion-trends-man-bags/

Although these were initially hard to stomach for some, it is safe to assume that there are men who eventually welcomed these respective trends after having blatantly detested them. However, it is this next trend that irks many a man as it is thought to blatantly cross the line drawn between male and female: The Man-Skirt.

The first time I had ever seen such was when learning about Scotland in preschool, which led to my discovery of the kilt. I eventually grew to understand the context in which it was worn and so I had no qualms with it. It was because of this that I was not as confounded by David Beckham in 1998 when he emerged with a sarong wrapped around his waist, making some sort of a fashion statement. If anything, it was from that point onward that he solidified his sense of bravado in my eyes.

David and Victoria Beckham
Photo Credit: ABSOLUTE/D'ARCANGELI 

Nowadays, it isn't just Beckham donning this trend. From the eccentric Marc Jacobs to hardcore rappers like Kanye West and A$AP Rocky, the man-skirt has been embraced. A$AP Rocky took it a step further by wearing a dress, although not actually a dress but rather an oversized tank top. With that being said, is this enough to persuade men around the world to consider making it a staple item?

Kanye West at the 12-12-12 concert
Photo credit: http://www.inflexwetrust.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/ifwt_kanye-west-skirt-12-12-12-concert-glamazons-blog-3.jpg

A$AP Rocky (left) wearing a "dress" (oversized tank top) as seen on the runway (right)
Photo credit: http://fortydinosaurs.files.wordpress.com/2013/02/aap-rocky-adresses-the-dress-and-high-end-fashion-in-hip-hop.jpg

Some men think that this trend, as well as others such as meggings (male leggings), often straddle lanes, crossing the line between haute couture and ready to wear. Furthermore, they may see it as highly inappropriate to wear in real life. 

I honestly don't see anything wrong with these trends. What is the point of fashion if you do not have the freedom to express yourself in the way you see fit? If anything, it shows some effort on the man's part. What do you think?

xx